nitrous

[nahy-truhs]

adjective

Chemistry.

1. pertaining to compounds obtained from niter, usually containing less oxygen than the corresponding nitric compounds.

2. containing nitrogen, usually in the trivalent state.

nitrous

/ ˈnaɪtrəs /

adjective

1. of, derived from, or containing nitrogen, esp in a low valency state

nitrous

1. Containing nitrogen, especially nitrogen with a valence of 3.

2. Compare nitric

Other Word Forms

• nonnitrous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous¹

First recorded in 1595–1605, nitrous is from the Latin word nitrōsus full of natron. See nitroso-

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitrous¹

C17: from Latin nitrōsus full of natron

Example Sentences

In 2016 it was made illegal to supply or import nitrous oxide if it was likely to be consumed for its psychoactive effect, and in 2023 it was made a class C drug.

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A court case against England goalkeeper Khiara Keating has been dropped nearly a year after she pleaded not guilty to possessing canisters of nitrous oxide.

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In a worst-case scenario, inhalation of nitrous oxide can lead to hypoxia, where the brain does not get enough oxygen.

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The suspect was arrested on suspicion of child endangerment and being in possession of nitrous oxide.

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He was arrested on suspicion of child endangerment and being in possession of nitrous oxide.

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